Cathedral of St Peter

In the heart of Bautzen’s charming old town, towering above the bustling Fleischmarkt, stands the majestic Cathedral of St Peter (known locally as Dom St. Petri). This architectural marvel, with its soaring spire and intricate design, is not only the tallest structure in Bautzen but also one of the most significant ecclesiastical buildings in Saxony. It has been a beacon of faith and history for centuries, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe.

The Rich Tapestry of History

The origins of the Cathedral of St Peter date back to around the year 1000 when Count Eido of Rochlitz established the first parish church on this site. This humble beginning laid the foundation for what would become a grand ecclesiastical edifice. The official establishment of the collegiate church of St. Peter occurred around 1217/18, with the choir being consecrated on June 24, 1221. Remarkably, some architectural elements from this early period, such as the west portal, have survived the test of time.

The cathedral underwent significant transformations in the 15th century, obtaining its current form in 1430. A notable expansion occurred between 1456 and 1463 when a fourth nave was added to the southern side of the late Gothic hall. The devastating city fire of 1634 led to a Baroque-style redesign of the interior, with the tower receiving its Baroque dome in 1664. The cathedral has seen multiple restorations, the most recent being in 1987, followed by a comprehensive interior renovation from 2013 to 2015. The cathedral was triumphantly reopened with an ecumenical service on November 14, 2015, marking a new chapter in its storied history.

A Unique Dual Heritage

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Cathedral of St Peter is its status as one of Germany's largest simultaneous churches, serving both Roman Catholic and Evangelical Lutheran congregations. This unique arrangement began de facto in 1524, following the Reformation, making it the first simultaneous church in Germany and one of only three in Eastern Germany. A landmark agreement in 1543 between the Bautzen council and the cathedral chapter formalized the shared use, designating the choir for Catholic services and the nave for Lutheran worship, with the boundary marked by a rood screen. This coexistence, though occasionally fraught with tension, has endured through centuries, symbolizing religious harmony and mutual respect.

Architectural Splendor and Artistic Treasures

The Cathedral of St Peter is a treasure trove of artistic and architectural splendor. In the Catholic section, the high altar, created in 1713, and the Crucifix (Permoser Cross) by Balthasar Permoser are of particular historical significance. The altarpiece by Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini depicts the handing over of the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven to Peter, while the altar table features the shield of the Trinity and the Latin chronogram HONORI TRIVNIVS DEI, ET SANCTI PETRI ALTARE SACRATVM EST – The altar was consecrated to the honor of the Triune God and Saint Peter (1771).

The choir stalls, with their intricate oak carvings, date back to around 1723. The south choir aisle houses the Cross Altar with an expressive linden wood Crucifix by Balthasar Permoser from 1713/14. The north choir aisle features the Sacrament Altar, a polychrome wooden sculpture by the Bohemian artist Jan Hajek from 1783, originally located in the Catholic sacristy.

In the Evangelical section, the Communion Altar from 1640 and the Princely Lodge from 1674 are noteworthy. The Communion Altar, crafted by an unknown sculptor from Zittau, underwent extensive restoration between 1995 and 1999. Its panels depict the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection of Christ, with the crowning image of Christ as the ruler and judge of the world.

The Tower and Its Views

The cathedral’s tower, standing at an impressive 83 meters, is a prominent feature of the Bautzen skyline. Visitors can climb the 238 steps to the viewing platform above the tower keeper's room, approximately 53 meters high, to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The tower is accessible on select weekends, offering a unique vantage point to appreciate Bautzen's historic charm.

Musical Heritage

The Cathedral of St Peter houses two distinct organs, each serving its respective congregation. The Evangelical organ, built in 1910 by the renowned Hermann Eule Orgelbau workshop, is one of the largest instruments of its kind. It features 62 registers across three manuals and pedal, with a pneumatic action system. The Catholic organ, originally constructed by Leopold Kohl in 1866, underwent significant modifications in 1927 and 1938, with restoration work in 1985–1986. It boasts 32 registers on two manuals and pedal, with mechanical action.

Traditions and Legends

Among the local folklore, there is a saying that bad weather is imminent when the cathedral organs. This belief stems from the wind noise produced by the tower's design during stormy weather, which resembles the sound of an organ. This phenomenon, often preceding thunderstorms, has become a charming part of Bautzen's cultural heritage.

The Cathedral of St Peter is more than just a place of worship; it is a living testament to centuries of history, art, and community. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to this magnificent cathedral promises a rich and rewarding experience.